2024 Volkswagen Atlas vs 2023 Acura MDX

When considering the 2023 Acura MDX, buyers found a distinctive range of options, from standard versions to the more performance-centric Type S. Each variant came with various trims such as Technology, A-Spec, and Advance packages for the standard MDX. The Type S was available in its base format or with an Advance package. The prices ranged from $49,550 to $73,200, with an additional $1,195 destination charge.

The Type S Advance variant in Apex Blue Pearl paint and an Orchid interior came with an MSRP of $74,995, which indicated Acura's intent to position it as a high-end luxury SUV. However, users found that it sometimes failed to meet lofty expectations in terms of quality, luxury, and driving dynamism.

This fourth-generation MDX was the first to feature the Type S badge, and its understated yet stylish design included chicane-design LED running lights, taillights, and LED headlights with automatic high-beam operation. It sported minor front styling modifications, muted badges, 21-inch wheels, and quad exhaust outlets that framed a rear diffuser panel. A panoramic sunroof and Iconic Drive ambient lighting themes provided added flair. Inside, the Type S featured perforated Milano leather, aluminum trims, and a Sport Appearance package, while the Type S Advance added open-pore wood and a leather-wrapped dashboard.

In contrast, the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas stood out with its broad styling refresh, which added modern elements like light-up VW logos on both the front (shining white) and back (shining red). The addition of a front light bar connected to daytime running lights and new LED headlights also contributed to a different face, exuding American swagger. At the rear, the taillights blended into a full-width light bar that housed the illuminated logo.

All trim levels offered new wheel designs, with the SE base model featuring 18-inch alloy wheels, and the SEL Premium R-Line sporting 21-inch wheels. The Atlas Peak Edition, a 2024 addition, introduced a more rugged aesthetic, with black 18-inch wheels, all-terrain tires, a unique front fascia, silver body cladding, and two new colors—Avocado Green and Pure Gray. Standard equipment included a panoramic sunroof and ambient lighting on SE with Technology models.

The interior received updates like a freestanding infotainment touchscreen, a downsized shifter toggle, and an arch design creating extra storage. While the layout was functional, the minimalist interior clashed slightly with the truck-like exterior. The cabin aimed for an upscale feel with fake wood trim and weaved plastic meant to simulate carbon fiber. Higher trims featured leather upholstery and diamond stitching. Overall, the Atlas provided a snazzy aesthetic, though some materials seemed more fitting for a base model than a high-end one.

The 2023 Acura MDX Type S distinguished itself with its turbocharged 3.0-liter V6 engine generating 355 horsepower and 354 pound-feet of torque. Increases over the standard 3.5-liter V6 were substantial, though the added power came with a weight penalty of 285 pounds. This engine used a 10-speed automatic transmission with paddle shifters, driving Acura's Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD) system capable of allocating up to 70% of engine output to a single rear wheel.

An Integrated Dynamics System offered multiple driving modes: Snow, Comfort, Normal, Sport, and Sport+. The MDX Type S also featured a unique Lift mode to boost ground clearance from 7.3 inches to 9.4 inches. Despite these robust specifications, the vehicle's performance didn’t coalesce into a harmonious driving experience. Issues such as tire squealing, inconsistent transmission behavior, and an unrefined ride marred the overall experience. The turbocharged V6 delivered spirited acceleration but with significant fuel consumption—averaging 16.9 mpg on a mixed evaluation route.

The system’s advanced driving modes often drew mixed reactions. In normal and highway conditions, the MDX Type S was generally agreeable, but engine response and transmission performance lacked consistency. Furthermore, the Electro-Servo brake system often felt difficult to modulate with desirable precision.

Conversely, the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas simplified its powertrain by eliminating the VR6 option, leaving a single 2.0-liter turbocharged inline four-cylinder engine producing 269 horsepower and 273 pound-feet of torque. Improved performance over the previous VR6 and base turbo-four meant the Atlas FWD models achieved zero to 60 mph in an estimated eight seconds, while AWD models took 8.3 seconds. This added power translated into noticeably smoother, quicker acceleration and improved driving dynamics without excessive noise, although it retained a focus on comfort and frugality.

The Atlas maintained a 5,000-pound towing capacity for most models and offered functional driving modes. While the Peak Edition added all-terrain tires, the focus remained mainly on a smooth, comfortable ride on pavement, with limited off-road capability. Despite maintaining a comfortable ride, the overall driving experience was not especially sporty or thrilling but remained competent for routine family use.

In terms of interior space and practicality, the 2023 Acura MDX impressed with its versatile three-row seating configuration and multiple storage options. The triple-zone automatic climate control and 16-way power-adjustable front seats with heating, ventilation, and massage were highlights, making for a luxurious driving experience. However, the driver's seat, while firm and supportive, lacked the snug, enveloping feel one would expect for spirited driving.

The MDX provided seven-passenger seating as standard, with the option to convert the second-row bench into captain's chairs. Access to the third row was facilitated by power-operated release buttons, though adults would find the space tight. Storage within the cabin was somewhat limited by design choices, such as the focus on the central infotainment and control interface, which sacrificed potential storage spaces.

The Acura's cargo capacity ranged from 18.1 cubic feet with all seats in use to a total of 71.4 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded down. The hands-free liftgate with a Walk Away Close function proved useful for family trips, offering a practical and thoughtfully designed storage space.

Meanwhile, the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas came with a refreshed list of standard features, including a heated steering wheel and ventilated front seats on the base SE trim, and leather upholstery with heated second-row seats on the SEL trim. Its interior was spacious, incorporating a standard three-seat second-row bench or optional captain's chairs, allowing for six- or seven-passenger configurations.

The Atlas provided an exceptionally roomy third row, which was easy to access even with child seats in place. Its interior storage options were impressive, and the revised layout around the center console enhanced usability. Cargo capacity ranged from 20.6 cubic feet with all seats in place to 96.6 cubic feet with the second and third rows folded down, surpassing nearly all of its rivals and positioning the Atlas as a strong choice for practicality.

The 2023 Acura MDX featured Acura's Digital Precision Cockpit, comprising a 12.3-inch digital instrument panel and infotainment display. However, the infotainment's True Touchpad Interface (TTI) had its critics due to its non-touchscreen capabilities. The TTI, although innovative, often came across as cumbersome compared to conventional touchscreens and voice-operated systems, resulting in added driver distraction.

The MDX shined with technology features like wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, Amazon Alexa Built-In, SiriusXM satellite radio, a native navigation system, and AcuraLink connected services with a three-year complimentary subscription. The top-tier Signature Edition ELS Studio 3D audio system delivered exceptional sound quality, bolstered by a 10.5-inch head-up display with critical driving information.

In contrast, the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas equipped even its base SE trim with a 12-inch touchscreen and 10.25-inch digital instrument cluster, plus standard wireless phone charging and wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The Atlas offered multiple USB-C ports, a dash cam port, and a head-up display on higher trims. Its premium audio, now by Harman Kardon, provided a solid upgrade from the standard six-speaker system.

The standardized advanced infotainment system was user-friendly, and the digital instrument cluster’s map view was particularly appreciated. Despite relying on haptic touchpads for control functions—seen as a technical touch—the usability wasn't universally favored, as tactile feedback was sometimes absent.

The 2023 Acura MDX boasted Acura Watch, a comprehensive suite of driving assistance and collision avoidance systems, including forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and lane-keeping aids. Additional trims included features like front and rear parking sensors, low-speed automatic braking, and a surround-view camera. While generally refined, certain systems like the steering wheel’s lane departure warning wobble and occasional false notifications drew some criticisms. Notably, the MDX received top safety marks from both IIHS and NHTSA.

For the 2024 Volkswagen Atlas, NHTSA awarded it a five-star overall safety rating, with high marks in side crash tests, though slightly lower in frontal and rollover tests. The previous year's IIHS ratings indicated solid crash performance, with the exception of a marginal rating in the updated moderate overlap front test. The 2024 model saw an expansion in standard driver-assist features, including forward collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and adaptive cruise control. Higher trims featured additional safety tech like park assist and a surround-view camera system, providing robust safety coverage.